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Electrolysis

Latest update: November 26, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD

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Electrolysis can effectively destroy hair follicles and ultimately stop their regrowth. This procedure uses heat or chemical energy. Unlike intense pulsed light (IPL) or other laser treatments that only minimize hair growth, it can permanently remove hair. Lasers target the melanin in the hair follicles, but electrolysis eradicates the hair follicles.

The treatment can target various body areas, such as the chin, upper lip, bikini line, underarms, and back.

There are three main types of electrolysis: galvanic, thermolysis, and a combination of the two.

The Galvanic technique uses a direct current to create a chemical reaction to destroy hair follicles. It utilizes an electrical charge that reacts with the saline in the body to generate sodium hydroxide. As the sodium hydroxide heats up, it damages the hairs and the cells around them. This technique is rather time-consuming as each follicle can take 2-3 minutes to remove. Apart from this inconvenience, this is an effective way to treat thick and rough hair. 

Thermolysis uses alternating current to heat the hair follicle and destroy it. The energy is delivered through a needle into the follicles. While this method is much quicker than galvanic, it only works on fine hairs.

The “Blend” method: fuses both techniques. It produces sodium hydroxide while distributing heat through the vibrations. This treatment is quick and takes 7 seconds to target each follicle.

Electrolysis requires multiple sessions that can last from 15 to 60 minutes. Doctors usually recommend 12-30 sessions in total. Patients need monthly breaks in between for noticeable results.
Anesthesia
topical
Operation Time
8-12
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
8-12
Recovery Period
2 weeks
Invasiveness
no

Laser Hair Removal vs. Electrolysis - Which is Better?

Rohini S. from Divine Spa compares Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis to determine which is better. She looks at the key differences to see what works best for individuals. She explains how each treatment works and talks about the comfort levels of each device. Which treatment will work best for you?

Is Electrolysis the Best Hair Removal Method? | The SASS with Susan and Sharzad

The SASS is back with Sharzad Kiadeh and Susan Yara taking on the topic of Electrolysis. They ask: "Is this procedure the best hair removal method?" Sharzad shares her experience of the procedure. Dana Elise, a skincare specialist, tells the ladies all about Electrolysis, She carries out the procedure on Sharzad. But will her experience and the results prove that this method is the best?